In a recently leaked video message to employees, UnitedHealth Group CEO Andrew Witty criticized what he called "aggressive, inappropriate and disrespectful" media coverage following the tragic shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson.
The video, obtained by leaked recording, shows Witty urging employees to "tune out critical noise" and avoid engaging with members of the press. "You've seen a lot of media interest in this situation with a huge amount of misinformation and frankly offensive communication," Witty stated in the recording.
The message comes amid unprecedented public reaction to Thompson's shooting outside a hotel during an investors meeting. The incident has sparked widespread commentary on social media, with many responses notably lacking sympathy for the victim - a reaction that has dominated headlines.
Witty, who received $23.5 million in compensation in 2023, defended the company's role in healthcare, stating "What we know to be true is the health system needs a company like UnitedHealth Group." He added that the company helps guard against "unsafe or unnecessary care."
However, critics like Justice Is Global founder Tobita Chow see the public's reaction differently. Speaking to the Washington Post, Chow pointed to "underlying populist frustration and rage" toward health insurance providers, noting that most Americans have experienced difficulties with their coverage.
The $400 billion company faces ongoing scrutiny over several controversies, including stricter requirements for care authorization and allegations of increased claim rejections to boost profits.
Meanwhile, the investigation into Thompson's shooting continues, with the FBI offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. Notably, online amateur detectives, usually quick to investigate such cases, have shown unusual reluctance to engage with this investigation.
The leaked recording highlights the growing tension between healthcare executives and public sentiment regarding America's insurance system, as both sides remain firmly entrenched in their positions.
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